Christmas is over. New Year’s Day has come and gone. The Christmas tree has been tucked away in the garage or basement until next December. Friends and family have gone home. Nothing remains of the holiday season, except the bills. Is it any wonder that many people experience a sense of depression in the New Year?
Let’s face it: November and December included a whirlwind of activity. For many of us, these months included the preparation of big dinners, partying, shopping, wrapping and mailing gifts and either calling or hosting various relatives or friends. Then, suddenly, New Year’s Day gets here and there is simply nothing left to do. It’s back to the daily 9-5 grind, taking care of the kids and just trying to survive the cold, dreary winter weather. For some people, the transition is too abrupt. For others, the holiday gatherings of friends and family were not all that they hoped for. These factors, and more, can lead to a post-holiday letdown and what I call the New Year’s Blues.
Read Related: Party Over? Beat the Post-Holiday Blues
Fortunately, there are some tried and true ways to lift your spirits. So, without further ado, here are Mamiverse’s tips for beating the New Year’s Blues:
Slow down and simplify: Don’t jump right back into your normal, hectic routine right after the holidays. If possible, ease back into your routine, adding a little more each day. Realize that you can’t do everything all at once. Give yourself some time to adjust.
Adjust your goals: New Year’s resolutions are a big source of the blues for many people. Are the goals that you set in a fit of New Year’s optimism realistic or, are you setting yourself up for failure? Many people make dramatic, overly-ambitious resolutions that can’t be maintained. Know yourself. What can you reasonably adjust in your lifestyle and what changes might be beyond you?
Plan a break: If possible, give yourself a day off or two in January or February. The break will give you something to look forward to, plus some time with family and friends (or alone on a tropical beach!) might be enough to recharge your batteries.
Make a change: If something isn’t right in your career, personal life or finances, this might be a good time to make a change. Starting a new job, beginning a new relationship or planning a new budget might let you start the year with a sense of optimism and excitement.
Clean up the mess: After the prolonged holiday season, with its wrapping paper, parties and big get-togethers, your house or apartment is probably a mess. Cleaning up all of that clutter and making your digs look nicer can brighten your outlook. While you’re at it, rearrange the furniture.
Get a hobby: Give yourself time each day to do something you like doing. Work on your hobby, read a book, listen to your favorite music, go for a walk, learn a second language or do whatever it is that works for you.
Catch up on your sleep: Good sleep habits are essential for getting yourself recharged. Many of us do not get the required 8 hours of sleep on a regular basis, anyway. During the holidays improper sleeping habits can become worse. Plan a nightly routine that allows you to get the sleep you need.
Exercise: Whatever your personal fitness routine might be, you probably fell off it during the holidays. Get back on track. Even a few minutes of a daily exercise routine can leave you feeling more upbeat about everything.
Realize you’re going to be blue: Every year at this time you feel let down. So, if you know you are likely to get the blues, plan for them. This year, resolve to cope with the New Year’s Blues in a positive, healthy manner.
